What a difference an awesome president makes...

If you ever had any doubts about what the election of Barak Obama has done for the reputation of Americans abroad, consider this- Every year Leiden celebrates October 3rd as the the day they overcame Spanish siege in 1574. Every year there is a big parade with a theme and this year's theme is "American Dreams." And in fact, they asked for Americans to walk in the parade waving American flags. (and not as targets for rotten tomatoes) Having been in London in 2004, I find this nearly incredulous. I won't be in the parade, but will be marveling at what one spectacular election can do.

Balsamic glazed steak-red pepper-red onion- tomato dinner salad fixins